The Future of Zero Emission Cars in the UK: A Shift to 2035

In the latest episode of the Autocar podcast My Week In Cars, Steve Cropley and Matt Prior discuss the recent announcement of a shift from 2030 to 2035 for zero emission cars in the UK. This change has significant implications for the automotive industry and raises questions about the future of specialist vehicles.

The UK government originally set a target for all new cars and vans to be zero emission by 2040. However, this target was brought forward to 2030 as part of the government’s efforts to tackle climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Now, the government has further accelerated its plans, aiming for all new cars and vans to be zero emission by 2035.

This shift has sparked a debate among car enthusiasts and industry experts. While many applaud the government’s commitment to reducing emissions, there are concerns about the impact on specialist vehicles. Steve Cropley and Matt Prior delve into this issue, exploring how the transition to zero emission vehicles could affect performance cars, classic cars, and other niche segments of the market.

To illustrate the capabilities of electric vehicles (EVs), Steve takes on the Watergate Bay Hillclimb in a BMW i4. The BMW i4 is an all-electric sedan that combines impressive acceleration with a long range. Steve’s experience highlights the potential of EVs in delivering thrilling driving experiences while also being environmentally friendly.

In addition to discussing EVs, Matt Prior brings up an interesting topic related to congestion on the A303 near Stonehenge. Some locals believe that rubbernecking, or slowing down to look at Stonehenge, is the main cause of traffic congestion in the area. Matt ponders whether a simple solution like diverting attention away from Stonehenge could alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow.

The Autocar podcast My Week In Cars is a must-listen for car enthusiasts and industry insiders. Each episode covers the latest news, reviews, and discussions about the world of cars. To ensure you never miss an episode, subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform. Don’t forget to rate and review the podcast to show your support.

The shift from 2030 to 2035 for zero emission cars in the UK marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to combat climate change. It reflects the growing recognition of the urgent need to transition to cleaner and more sustainable transportation. While there are challenges ahead, such as infrastructure development and consumer adoption, the automotive industry is poised to embrace this change and lead the way in innovation.

As we look towards a future of zero emission cars, it’s important to consider the broader implications beyond just reducing emissions. The transition to EVs presents opportunities for new technologies, job creation, and improved air quality. It also raises questions about the future of classic cars and other niche vehicles that may not fit into the zero emission framework.

The Autocar podcast My Week In Cars provides valuable insights into these topics and more. Steve Cropley and Matt Prior bring their expertise and passion for cars to every episode, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the automotive industry. So, tune in, subscribe, and join the conversation about the future of cars in a zero emission world.

In conclusion, the shift from 2030 to 2035 for zero emission cars in the UK has sparked discussions and debates about the future of specialist vehicles. The Autocar podcast My Week In Cars explores these topics, providing valuable insights and perspectives from industry experts. With the rise of EVs and the ongoing efforts to combat climate change, it’s an exciting time for the automotive industry as it embraces the challenge of creating a sustainable and zero emission future.